Roller Skate Boot Styles: Sneaker vs High-Ankle — Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right pair of roller skates for your child can make a big difference in how confident, comfortable and excited they feel on wheels. This guide breaks down the main boot styles in a simple way so you can pick what’s best for your child’s skating journey.
👟 Sneaker-Style (Low-Cut) Boots
Feels Like a Shoe — Great for Active Movement
Why kids (and parents!) like them:
Feels very similar to regular sneakers — familiar and comfy
Allows a full range of ankle movement — easy to bend and squat
Lightweight and flexible
Great for kids who want an athletic, sporty vibe
Best for:
Speed skating
Roller derby
Kids who already have some balance and want freedom to move
Things to know:
Because the ankle isn’t covered high, kids will rely more on their own balance and leg strength — which is awesome as they get confident, but might be a bit wobbly at first.
Example of low-cut boot skates
Low-cut boots roller skates used in Roller Derby
👢 High-Ankle Boots
Classic Skate Look — Extra Support + Stylish
Why they work well:
Provide extra ankle support — helps steady beginners
Include a heel (standard in design) that naturally encourages a slight forward lean, helping balance
Stylish and timeless — perfect for dance, park, casual cruising
Often seen as “true roller skates”
Best for:
New skaters needing a little extra stability
Dance / artistic skating
Recreational rolling and cruising around
Things to know:
• A stiffer boot means less ankle bend than a low-cut — but that’s usually helpful for balance
• Materials like leather or suede can feel snug at first but soften with wear
Example of high-ankle boot roller skates
The “Classic” roller skate look
🎯 Tips for Choosing
Think about how your child will skate:
Want freedom to move fast and bend often? Sneaker-style might suit
Nervous about balance or still learning? High-ankle can help build confidence
Fit matters more than style:
A skate that fits snugly (not tight) with a well-fitting socks will always feel better than one that’s just cool looking.
Try them on if you can:
If possible, have your child walk, squat, bounce and glide a few steps in both styles — their comfort and confidence usually tell you what’s right.
There’s no single “best” skate for every child — everyone learns differently. The right pair is the one that helps your child feel safe, confident and excited to skate.
or book a skate fitting
